Turning CVEs into Educational Labs:Insights and Challenges

Trueye Tafese

Published: 2025/8/30

Abstract

This research focuses on transforming CVEs to hands-on educational lab for cybersecurity training. The study shows the practical application of CVEs by developing containerized lab environments- Docker to simulate real-world vulnerabilities like SQL Injection, arbitrary code execution, and improper SSL certificate validation. These labs has structured tutorials, pre- and post-surveys to evaluate learning outcomes, and remediation steps.Key challenges included interpreting limited CVE data, resolving technical complexities in lab design, and ensuring accessibility for diverse learners. Despite these difficulties, the findings highlight the use of educational benefits of vulnerability analysis, bridging theoretical concepts with hands-on experience. The results indicate that students improved comprehension of cybersecurity principles, threat mitigation techniques, and secure coding practices. This innovative approach provides a scalable and reproducible model for integrating CVEs into cybersecurity education, fostering a deeper understanding of real-world security challenges in a controlled and safe environment.